Tropical Diseases Unit, Edinburgh

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the future of the tropical medicine unit in Edinburgh; and if he will clarify the position in relation to ex-Japanese prisoners of war.

The staffing position at the Tropical Diseases Unit at the City Hospital, Edinburgh, may be affected by the decision of the University of Edinburgh to suspend temporarily the course in tropical medicine and hygiene. The South Eastern Regional Hospital Board is awaiting decisions about the availability of university staff before considering any possible adjustment to the work of the unit. The regional board will, in any event continue to make provision for the investigation and care of patients suffering from tropical diseases, including former prisoners of war in the Far East.